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Pressing and Borders (Part 2)

A couple weeks ago we covered pressing your blocks (and quilts). Now to the important part of getting a perfectly flat border…

The first step is to measure your quilt from edge to edge (including the seam allowances). Write the measurement down. (Check both dimensions even if the quilt is square.) If you have different measurements on a square quilt, take an average.

Measure edge to edge.

My piece measured 14 1/4″. Divide this number by 2 making your cutting number 7 1/8. Keep this number handy.

Cut ALL borders parallel to the selvage (lengthwise grain) the width you choose. This prevents warping of the borders and will keep your quilt flat. Fold your borders in the middle. (You can stack a couple at a time if you wish.) Measure out from the fold your divided number.

Measure out from the fold 7 1/8″ and mark.

Here is the important part… Cut out from the fold using a 45 degree ruler.

Cut out from the mark.

Sew the borders onto the quilt top stopping at the 1/4″ mark.

Sew the borders onto the quilt, leaving the miters free.

Lastly, stitch the borders together, taking care not to catch in the corners of the quilt.

Sew just the 2 adjacent borders together.

Turn your quilt over and give it a final press. Lovely, flat borders and NO STRETCHING! Your quilt will be an award winner! Feel free to share these tips with your quilt making friends.

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Comments

Pressing and Borders (Part 2) — 6 Comments

Oh my goodness, I wish I had seen this a couple of weeks ago when I did my first mitered borders (yes, 3 mitered borders) on my granddaughter’s quilt. I finally got the borders to lie nice and flat, but I won’t tell you how long it took and how much trouble it was. I’m definitely bookmarking this page!!

Thanks Cindy for this information. I was doing it all wrong and that is why I hate to miter. This information is very clear and will try it on my next quilt.
You are such a good teacher.
Love ya,
Martha

I really needed this!!! I could not figure out how to miter a wide border. I asked lots of quilters and they didn’t know either. I ended up not doing a miter border but knew that you had done yours. Thanks you so much!!!!